Kentucky first legalized charter schools back in 2017 under former Gov. Matt Bevin, but so far none have taken off in the commonwealth – in part because of the lack of a formal funding mechanism. But that changed in 2022, when the General Assembly passed a bill codifying a funding model.
In Madison County, LaFontaine Preparatory School – a small private school with fewer than 200 students enrolled, according to FOX56 – is applying to become a charter. Supporters say the switch would remove tuition barriers and increase access to the school for parents seeking alternative education for their kids. The school is also boasting 20% smaller class sizes than the state standard as well as more instruction time.
But critics worry approval of the charter application would siphon away public tax dollars that could be spent on public education.
A public meeting was held on the proposed charter school Tuesday night. For now, the Madison County Board of Education says the application is still under review and school leaders are weighing public reaction to the idea.
